The Barthelasse Island by bike from the Avignon Grand Hôtel
Categories : Nature escape
Just five minutes by bike from Avignon's ramparts, the Île de la Barthelasse unfolds one of Europe's largest river islands: 700 hectares of orchards, wild banks, and flat paths, facing the Palais des Papes. From the Avignon Grand Hôtel, we have envisioned the ideal itinerary to discover its treasures — highlights, gourmet stops, and the most beautiful panoramas included.
Why the Barthelasse is a must-see
The Île de la Barthelasse is the largest river island in Western Europe, with about 700 hectares and 14 km of cycle paths facing Avignon's ramparts. Separated from the Cité des Papes by a branch of the Rhône, it has long been Avignon's orchard — it remains today one of the few agricultural territories at the heart of a UNESCO city. Partly designated as a Natura 2000 Zone, it is home to protected wildlife (grey herons, European beavers, European bee-eaters, and kingfishers) and can be explored in a few hours on perfectly flat routes, suitable for families and beginner cyclists alike.
From Avignon Grand Hôtel, the Barthelasse is a five-minute bike ride away: simply follow the ramparts to the foot of the Pont d'Avignon, then cross the Rhône via the Daladier footbridge or — more poetically — take the free river shuttle that crosses in four minutes and accepts bicycles.
Our recommended route: 18 km, 2h30 with breaks
Stage 1 — Departure from the hotel and Rhône crossing (0 to 2 km)
We provide you with a detailed map at the reception and guide you from our secure bike facility. Exit on the ramparts side, follow them north to the Porte du Rocher, then reach the foot of the Pont d'Avignon. The free Barthelasse river shuttle operates from April to September from 11 am to 9 pm (extended hours in high season) and drops you off on the island in four minutes.
Stage 2 — Towpath and view of the Palais (2 to 6 km)
Take the towpath south, on the right bank of the large Rhône. This is where, about 1.5 km from the shuttle, you'll find the best photographic viewpoint of the Pont Saint-Bénezet, the ramparts, and the Palais des Papes — a perspective impossible to obtain from the city. The sunset, between 8:30 pm and 9:15 pm in summer, is particularly spectacular.
Stage 3 — Gourmet break at a local producer (6 to 10 km)
Barthelasse has about ten farms with direct sales, heirs to the centuries-old market gardening tradition. Among our favorite addresses: the Ferme des Grands Jardins for its seasonal fruits (apricots in June, peaches in July, figs in September), and of course the famous Barthelasse pears, cultivated on the island since the 19th century. Many summer guinguettes also offer a refreshing stop in the shade of plane trees.
Stage 4 — Northern loop and wildlife observation (10 to 18 km)
Head north to the tip of the island via secondary paths that wind between poplar groves and ponds. This is the wildest area, preserved as part of the Natura 2000 network. With a bit of patience and silence, you can observe grey herons, little egrets, kingfishers, and — more discreetly — traces of beavers on the banks. The return naturally heads back to the shuttle, ideally at the golden hour.
Our 4-star "Soft Mobility" offer
The Avignon Grand Hôtel provides a secure bike facility. Our team will advise you on the detailed itinerary, the addresses of the day's producers, the updated river shuttle schedule, and our favorite photographic viewpoints. Optionally, we can organize a picnic prepared by our team — to take along in panniers for a gourmet stop on the banks.
After exertion: rooftop pool facing the ramparts
Upon returning to the hotel, our rooftop pool facing the medieval ramparts awaits you for a well-deserved recovery. The lounge bar offers a menu of refreshing drinks and snacks perfect for extending the moment. It is one of the few panoramic pools in intra-muros Avignon, reserved for our resident guests.
Good to know before you go
• Season — accessible all year round, ideal from April to October; avoid strong mistral days for cycling comfort.
• Level — flat paths, accessible to children from 6-7 years old independently; child trailers available for rent.
• Equipment — scarce drinking water fountains on the island — plan for at least 1.5 L of water per person in summer.
• Price — e-bike rental about €35 per day, classic bike €15-20; inquire at Reception.
• Access — free river shuttle operates from April to September; Daladier footbridge accessible all year round for bicycles.
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